UPDATE: District 518 Superintendent Joel Heitkamp has urgently confirmed that recent rumors of Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers in Worthington are completely false. This announcement comes as concerns grow following a tragic shooting involving ICE in South Minneapolis earlier this week.
Late Thursday afternoon, Heitkamp addressed the issue following a social media post that spread throughout the community, claiming ICE was active in local schools. “We feel it is important to address a social media post that circulated yesterday and today regarding alleged ICE activity in Worthington involving students,” Heitkamp stated in a press release.
The superintendent emphasized that district leadership has collaborated closely with local partners to investigate these rumors. “We can confirm that the statements made in that post are not true,” Heitkamp reassured parents and students. “We are committed to supporting our students and families and to ensuring our schools remain safe, welcoming, and focused on learning.”
The rumors have surfaced in the wake of a shooting on Wednesday morning that resulted in the death of a 37-year-old woman in Minneapolis, where ICE was involved. The incident has sparked peaceful protests across the Twin Cities and beyond, raising tensions in communities already on edge.
Additionally, nearby Rochester has reported increased ICE visibility in response to the shooting, heightening fears among residents. Heitkamp’s swift action to clarify the situation is vital for maintaining trust and safety within District 518.
Authorities are urging community members to refrain from spreading unverified information. The district remains dedicated to providing a secure learning environment for all students amidst ongoing national discussions about immigration enforcement.
As developments continue, residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels. For now, District 518 stands firm in its commitment to the safety and well-being of its students, ensuring that education remains the primary focus in Worthington.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation evolves.
